Marissa Danae Brown Obituary, Death Cause – Marissa Danae Brown, a vibrant 18-year-old from Rutledge, touched the lives of many before her untimely passing on July 11, 2023, at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. She fought a courageous battle against cancer, demonstrating her strength and determination throughout. Marissa was known for her sassy and outspoken nature, never afraid to speak her mind.
She possessed a deep sense of compassion, always seeking ways to bring joy to others. Her faith in Jesus was a cornerstone of her life, and she cherished her family, her truck, and her cows. Marissa shared a special bond with her father, spending countless memorable moments by his side, working with cattle. Her ability to understand and connect with the cows earned her the endearing nickname of “cow whisperer.”
As a member of Promise Land Church, Marissa found solace and community in her faith. She was preceded in death by her beloved grandfather, Carl “Poppy” Brown, as well as her great-grandparents J.H. and Edna R. Morgan, Charles and Ruth Williams, and Charles and Marion Brown.
Left to cherish her memory are her parents, Quinton and Christi Brown, along with her sister Morgan and her brother Dawson. Marissa’s grandparents, Reece Morgan, Michelle Orrick, and Sue Brown, held a special place in her heart, as did her great-grandmother, Rose Orrick. She is also survived by her aunts Cindy (Sonny) Wallace, Missy Hipsher, Jennifer Nance, and Carla Blackmon, as well as her uncle Shane (Brittany) Orrick. Marissa’s niece, Adalyn Orrick, and nephew, Abel Orrick, brought immense joy to her life. Additionally, she shared an unbreakable bond with her best friend and bonus family, including Mandy Widener, Mary, McKayla, and Megan Widener, and Freida “Nannie” Widener. Marissa also held dear her best friend and bonus nephew, Lexi Williams, and Waylon “Way-Way” Huskey, as well as Whitney Gosnell and Rylan Turner. A multitude of great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins, and friends, along with the compassionate staff and fellow patients at ETCH oncology clinic and 2 East, mourn her loss.
The family expressed deep gratitude to the community for their unwavering prayers, support, and generous donations over the past two years. Their outpouring of love carried them through the most challenging moments of Marissa’s journey, and they will forever remain thankful.
Special recognition was extended to Marissa’s oncology clinic nurses, her cherished A-Team, as well as Dr. Jennifer Hamm, Dr. Shahid Malik, and the nurses and staff of Two East. Their exceptional care, love, and boundless compassion for Marissa exceeded all expectations, leaving an indelible mark on her family’s hearts.
Family and friends were invited to pay their respects at the Smith-Reagan Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, July 14, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The funeral service followed, officiated by Rev. Dewayne Coffman and Rev. Scott Howerton. On Saturday, July 15, 2023, a procession from Smith-Reagan Funeral Home to Grainger Memorial Gardens was organized for an 11:00 am graveside service.
Smith-Reagan Funeral Home of Rutledge handled the arrangements, and further information can be found on their website, www.smithreaganfuneralhome.com.
Marissa Danae Brown’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her. Her sassy spirit, unwavering determination, and selflessness will be remembered and cherished by her loved ones and the community she touched. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
